I learned about Portugal from the people I worked with, what they ate, how they communicate, and I even learned some Portuguese. I would tell someone who is hesitant that it is very easy to volunteer through IVHQ and that everyone is very supportive.
Hedgehog Conservation Volunteer Project in Portugal - Porto
Purpose
Support hedgehog conservation efforts
Start dates
Programs start on the first and third Monday of every month
Duration
Choose from 1-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 5 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 18+
Accommodation
Dormitory-style hostel
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
This program is ideal for:
Volunteers who love animals and are looking to join conservation efforts while focussing on rescuing and rehabilitation. Most of all, you’ll be contributing to a greater environmental and animal protection mission.
Project details
Become the hedgehog’s hero! Are you and advocate for animal welfare and conservation? If so, join our rescue center’s volunteer team to save, rehabilitate, and safeguard the future of the adorable European Hedgehog.
In recent years, there has been a significant decline in the hedgehog population because of growing infrastructure, mechanized agriculture, climate change, as well as natural causes such as, predation and disease. This goes on top of other natural causes such as predation and disease. Joining International Volunteer HQ’s Hedgehog Conservation project gives you hands-on experience in conservation and the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these charming animals.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
In this unique project, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a vital cause by joining a non-profit rescue center dedicated exclusively to the care of hedgehogs.
A one of its kind in the country, this rescue center focuses on the rehabilitation of injured and sick hedgehogs, with the ultimate aim of releasing them back into their natural habitat.
Hedgehogs have been facing increasing threats due to pollution, habitat loss, road accidents, and scarcity of food. These factors have led to a significant decline in the European Hedgehog population in recent years.
In response to these challenges, wildlife conservation organizations, including the center, are working tirelessly to bolster the hedgehog population and ensure the longevity of these fascinating creatures.
As a volunteer at this 100% volunteer-run center, your role is pivotal. You will assist the staff in various tasks to support the hedgehogs’ recovery and care, including:
- Cleaning cages and enclosures
- Feeding the hedgehogs
- Engaging in awareness initiatives
- Partake in the exciting process of releasing these animals back into the wild
- Support clinical procedures, such as wound cleaning, administering medications, and conducting coprology studies, among other tasks
Want to volunteer with a wider range of animals? Check out our Biological Park Conservation Volunteer Project in Miranda do Corvo, Portugal.
Why do Hedgehog Conservation volunteering in Porto with IVHQ?
When you volunteer in the Hedgehog Conservation project, you will be adding value to the local community while, at the same time, developing personal and professional skills by:
- Learning about how NGOs in Portugal operate
- Supporting the mandate and operations of local NGOs
- Driving impactful change to address pressing environmental issues in Portugal
- Participate in the hedgehog conservation movement in the region
- Immersing yourself in environmental initiatives such as habitat restoration and rehabilitation
Volunteer requirements
- Volunteers need to be 18 years or older to participate in this program. If you are under 18, IVHQ offers alternative volunteer opportunities for teens. Visit our High School Volunteer Abroad page to learn more.
- All volunteers are required to have adequate volunteer travel insurance
- All volunteers are required to provide a criminal background check to IVHQ prior to departure
- All volunteers must speak fluent English
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
Get personalized recommendations >
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
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IVHQ Young Mom’s Support project
IVHQ Environmental Conservation and Horse Patrol project
IVHQ Hedgehog Conservation project
IVHQ Young Mom’s Support project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Young Mom’s Support project
IVHQ Environmental Conservation and Horse Patrol project
IVHQ Hedgehog Conservation project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Young Mom’s Support project
IVHQ Environmental Conservation and Horse Patrol project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Hedgehog Conservation project
IVHQ Hedgehog Conservation project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Young Mom’s Support project
IVHQ Environmental Conservation and Horse Patrol project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Hedgehog Conservation project
IVHQ Young Mom’s Support project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Environmental Conservation and Horse Patrol project
IVHQ Young Mom’s Support project
IVHQ Youth Support project
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
AP
Alyson Prince
24 Jan 2025
...
KZ
Karyna Zotova
13 Sep 2024
I gained a lot of experience. I really enjoyed working with kids, and had a lot of fun with them. The program taught me how to manage and communicate with children. I really lacked that knowledge before, so I’m grateful for that incredible opportunity to be able to participate in a Youth Support program.
...
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Academic course credit
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course creditLocation
Location
Experience the vibrant allure of Porto, Portugal’s eclectic gem!
This city is a tapestry of ancient charm and contemporary buzz. Wander through its serpentine, mural-adorned streets in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, where every corner tells a story.
There is so much to do!
You can hop on a vintage tram to where the Douro River kisses the Atlantic, discover sun-soaked beaches and chic outdoor cafés, try the typical “Francesinha,” immerse yourself in Serralves, and go to the famous library in the city center!
As night falls, the city transforms into a lively playground with an array of trendy rooftop bars, cozy cafés, and electric clubs.
Beyond its lively streets, Porto is the gateway to Northern Portugal’s rich tapestry of culture and scenery. It’s not just a city, it’s an experience!
Arrival and orientation
The program orientation begins on the first and third Monday of each month, and volunteers need to arrive in Porto on the Sunday before program orientation.
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto Airport) (OPO) in Porto on the Sunday before your program orientation. Your airport pick-up is included in your Program Fee.
When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation in Porto. Your accommodation is covered by your Program Fee and includes the night before your program orientation.
If you are traveling in Portugal prior to your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up at a prearranged destination in Porto on the day before your program orientation.
Orientation is hosted by our Portugal team in Porto. Orientation begins on the morning of your chosen start date and covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Porto – an introduction to Portugal and Porto, culture and customs, rules and expectations, safety, travel opportunities, and an introduction to the project and placement, along with a tour of the local area. The orientation will also give you a chance to meet other volunteers and swap contact details for weekend travel and socializing.
A separate orientation dedicated to your placement will be held the following day. You will be shown how to travel to and from your placement, receive an introduction, and complete your volunteering hours.
Volunteer schedule example
First Day
You will be escorted to your placement by a local coordinator and introduced to the placement staff you will be working alongside.
Weekdays
During the week, you will have an afternoon shift, which will last approximately 4 hours from 2:30 PM - 6:00 PM. Please keep in mind that the Hedgehog Conservation project is available from Tuesday - Friday, there is no volunteering work available on Monday. Note that start times and daily workload will depend on your specific placement.
A typical day between Tuesday and Friday on the Hedgehog Conservation project is as follows:
| 7.00 AM - 10.00 AM | Breakfast at the volunteer accommodation |
| 9.00 AM | Free time to explore or rest. You are free to relax at the accommodation, go sightseeing, or head out for some shopping |
| 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM | Lunch is served at a local restaurant near the volunteer accommodation |
| 1.30 PM | Travel to your placement via public transportation, which can take approximately an hour, depending on traffic |
| 2.30 PM | Volunteering on your placement begins alongside placement staff and other volunteers until approximately 6:00 PM. |
| 6.00 PM | Volunteering work on your placement usually ends. You are free to travel back to your accommodation |
| 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Dinner is served at a local restaurant near the volunteer accommodation |
Weekends
Volunteers can travel and explore the eclectic city of Porto, Portugal. From visiting one of the oldest libraries in the world, catching a futebol match, or trying out a local francesinha, you can create an itinerary by yourself or with your fellow volunteers!
Volunteers staying in Portugal longer or who wish to travel before or after their program can visit areas further afield in Portugal, including Lisbon, the Azores, the Algarve, and many other places. With the advice and guidance of our expert local team, you can make travel arrangements once you arrive in Porto
Accommodation and WiFi
Volunteers are accommodated in a dormitory-style hostel along the scenic Douro River in the heart of the city – the perfect retreat for volunteers in Porto. The accommodation is just a stone’s throw from the metro and a short walk from Porto Cathedral and Torre dos Clérigos.
Volunteers can immerse themselves in the lively neighborhood, teeming with supermarkets, quaint cafes, bustling bars, and all modes of public transportation. Expect cozy accommodations shared with up to eleven other people per room. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, en suite showers and toilets, and bedding. Along with personal touches, like reading lights and power outlets at every bed and individual lockers to store your belongings securely.
The accommodation communal areas feature a fully equipped shared kitchen and lounge area, allowing you to relax and mingle with fellow volunteers.
WiFi is available at the volunteer accommodation and is free of charge. Please note that the the signal may be weaker in some areas of the accommodation. WiFi is also available at many cafes and restaurants in the area.
Meals
Volunteers are provided with breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day.
Breakfast is served buffet style at the volunteer accommodation. The buffet includes cereals, yogurt, seasonal fruits, bread, butter, jam, coffee, milk, and tea.
Lunch and dinner are served in a nearby restaurant which prepares tasty Portuguese dishes with fresh local ingredients. The menu consists of local food, a mixture of meat, fish, and vegetable dishes.
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-intolerant options are available upon request.
Discover the ‘Dish of the Day’ in Portugal - Porto!
What is the ‘Dish of the Day’?
In Portugal, many local restaurants embrace a tradition where they cook one or two special dishes in large quantities each day. These dishes are always Portuguese and made with fresh ingredients, offering you an authentic taste of the local cuisine. From octopus rice to pork with fries, the ‘dish of the day’ is a delightful surprise!
How Will You Find Out What It Is?
The excitement of the ‘dish of the day’ is that you won’t know what’s on offer until you arrive at the restaurant. The staff will inform you of the day’s special dish, so each meal becomes a new experience. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and try something new every day!”
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bathroom
Typical volunteer bathroom
Pricing
Secure your place for just US$299 (approximately $299), pay your Program Fee later.
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$299 (approximately $299) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
Duration |
Program FeeDue 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
|---|---|
| 1 week | $700 Equivalent to $100/day |
| 2 weeks | $1,210 Equivalent to $86/day |
| 3 weeks | $1,720 Equivalent to $82/day |
| 4 weeks | $2,230 Equivalent to $80/day |
| 5 weeks | $2,740 Equivalent to $78/day |
| 6 weeks | $3,250 Equivalent to $77/day |
| 8 weeks | $4,270 Equivalent to $76/day |
| 10 weeks | $5,290 Equivalent to $76/day |
| 12 weeks | $6,310 Equivalent to $75/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately $299) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Recommended spending money: Volunteers in Porto generally find US$150 to be sufficient for weekly expenses, including transport and miscellaneous spending.
- Any changes or cancellations within 14 days of your start date are subject to a US$200 late change/cancellation fee.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Airport pick-up
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country emergency support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Comprehensive in-country day to day support and guidance
- Discounts on travel and tour add-ons
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- Transport to and from your placement each day
- Return to the airport when your program finishes
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Popular add-ons & experiences in Porto
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Porto program.
Workshop Pastel de Nata
This workshop offers a hands-on culinary experience, perfect for food lovers and culture enthusiasts.
$52
Airport Drop-off
Enjoy a stress-free ride from your accommodation to the airport, organized by the local team.
$57
Group Surf Lessons
These surf lessons are an unforgettable experience that offers an exhilarating way to experience the waves of Porto’s beautiful coastline.
From $47
Check what's required to visit Portugal
Safety and support
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
Essential country information
| Capital | Porto |
| Population | 214,349 |
| Languages | Portuguese |
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Time zone | UTC+00:00 |
Weather and climate: Porto has generally moderate temperatures. The average annual high is around 20 °C (68 °F) and average low around 11 °C (52 °F). The climate is also only mildly seasonal, from a maxima of 14 °C (57 °F) in January to 25–26 °C (77–79 °F) in August, while minima is around 5–6 °C (41–43 °F) in January and 15–16 °C (59–61 °F) in July and August.
Apply to check if you're eligible!
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